The A Tanedda Glacier

Enter the village of Bocognano, then, after the bridge and before the church, take the road on the left which leads to the hamlet of Bussu and the mill. Descend slowly (narrow road) to the car park, the starting point of the hike.

(S/E) Continue along the path. Use the footbridge to cross the Gravona and follow the path that starts on the right.

(1) At the junction, follow the sign for “Circular Walk of Richjusa – Mattonu” and take the path on the right. There is a steep climb after the footbridge, which is a good way to warm up.

(2) Reach the Mattonu sheepfolds. Take the path that passes between the two sheepfolds and then continues to the left, following the Richjusa and the Cardiccia stream along their left banks.

(3) A section with ropes will be very useful, both for the descent to the Besgiu stream and for the climb back up.

(4) You’ll reach the Besgiu sheepfolds, a reminder of the old agro-pastoral way of life. Follow the cairns as they climb to the left. Once past the sheepfolds, the cairns become less obvious, but a view of the glacier soon comes into sight. Proceed carefully, taking care not to slip on the flat rocks.

(5) At the end of the path, you reach the glacier. Depending on the time of year, the glacier may be more or less reduced in size and will therefore require more or less effort to reach. The return journey follows the same route in the opposite direction (S/E).

Bring water and suitable footwear (the rocks can be slippery). You will need to use your hands for certain sections. Thunderstorms are common in the glacier area, particularly in the afternoon, even in summer. Adjust your departure time accordingly. Due to global warming, the glacier tends to shrink or even disappear in summer.

Richjusa Gorge (canyoning).

Mulinu di l'orsu (watermill used to make chestnut flour)